EXCLUSIVE:Dell investigates partner web tool calamity

Dell is investigating an error on its web-based ordering mechanism that caused the system to
crash leaving reseller partners with invalid quotes for customers.

The Premier Pages online tool allows Dell's authorised reseller partners to view the latest
products with a set discount structure but it went down on 16 July for a reason that has yet to be
determined.

"Dell identified an issue last week affecting online pricing on its Premier Pages, and is
currently investigating how this error occurred," a Dell spokeswoman told Microscope.

"We are focused on providing partners with a consistent service and updated information. Until
this error has been fully investigated, we will not be commenting further," she added.

One frustrated Dell reseller had placed orders for kit but the prices he received on two thirds
was incorrect.

"The majority of our orders will not be honoured, Dell gave us the wrong pricing, we placed the
order against it and have now been told that cannot have it," said one partner.

Another Dell partner claimed the following day the system had returned to normal.

This week, IndependenceIT unveiled the 4.0 version of Cloud Workspace Suite, which features a number of enhancements; Knowledge Vault launched a partner program for its cloud-based analytics-as-a-service platform; and more.

Value-added resellers and service providers interested in reselling Aruba networking hardware and software can learn the benefits of becoming an Aruba Networks partner with this standardized checklist. Compare Aruba's reseller partner program with other vendors' offering similar products.